Tackle drug abuse in communities

The current state of drug and substance abuse among the youth in our towns and cities is a cause for
concern.

A simple stroll through any suburb reveals a distressing picture of youths caught in the clutches of
addiction. Gone are the days when drug use was confined to secluded places and dark streets.
Today, it has infiltrated our neighbourhoods, affecting the very fabric of our society.

It is disheartening to witness the youth, who are meant to be the future leaders of our nation,
persisting in this destructive behaviour.

Some have even resorted to violence, while others tragically end up taking their own lives. This is a
crisis that demands immediate attention and effective solutions.

While the government and various stakeholders have launched drug awareness campaigns, it is
evident that the war against drug and substance abuse is far from over.

Education and awareness programmes must be implemented in schools, community centres, and
even recreational facilities frequented by young people. It is crucial to equip them with the
knowledge and tools to resist the temptations posed by drugs and substances.

Recently, Jonathan Gandari, the Chief Director in the Ministry of Information, Publicity, and
Broadcasting Services, raised a thought-provoking concern. He drew attention to the alarming trend
of celebrities in our country glamourising and promoting drug use.

This issue cannot be overlooked, as celebrities have a significant influence on the impressionable
minds of our youth. It is imperative for public figures to uphold their responsibility as role models
and actively discourage drug abuse.

In light of the escalating drug abuse crisis among the youth in Zimbabwe, it is imperative that
immediate action be taken to address one of its contributing factors: the promotion of drug abuse
through music.

The Broadcasting Services of Zimbabwe (BAZ) and other relevant stakeholders must step forward
and ban the playing of music that glorifies and glamourises drug and substance abuse.

Music plays a powerful role in shaping societal attitudes and influencing behaviour, particularly
among young people who are highly receptive to popular culture. Unfortunately, there has been a
growing trend of songs that not only condone but also actively promote the use of drugs and
substances.

These songs, often infused with catchy beats and captivating melodies, paint a distorted image of
drug abuse as glamourous and desirable.

By allowing such music to be broadcasted without restraint, we are inadvertently contributing to the
normalisation and acceptance of drug abuse within our communities. This not only undermines the
efforts being made to combat the crisis but also puts the lives and futures of our youth at risk.

Banning the playing of music that promotes drug and substance abuse is a critical step towards
safeguarding the well-being and future of our nations youth. It sends a clear message that drug

abuse is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. It also provides an opportunity to educate and
raise awareness about the dangers and consequences associated with substance abuse.

More importantly, the battle against drug and substance abuse among our youth requires a united
and comprehensive approach. It is essential for the government, community leaders, parents,
educators, and society as a whole to work together to provide support, guidance, and resources to
our young generation. Let us not allow them to be lost to addiction, but rather foster an
environment that cultivates their potential and secures a brighter future for our nation.